Dedicated Heart// By Emily Ann Rhinehart

Have you ever felt compelled to do something you know may bring you discomfort? Have you ever put your needs second and God’s first? These are a few questions I believe Ruth had to contemplate in order to move on from her situation after her husband’s death.

Ruth knew that what she had just experienced was true heartbreak. She lost someone precious, moved in with her mother-in-law, and then moved to a new land to live among strangers. That’s deep, right?

I don’t think that Ruth made these changes to satisfy her own needs. I mean, who wants to move away somewhere completely unknown and start a new life? Definitely not me, but this is where we see so much of Ruth’s strength.

Ruth followed her commands and worked in the fields with the harvesters. Boaz saw her hard work and rewarded and thanked her for her dedication to her mother-in-law.

“But I also know about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband. I have heard how you left your father and mother and your own land to live here among complete strangers. May the Lord, the God of Israel, under who wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” Ruth 2:11-12 NLT

Ruth shows her dedication to the Lord in what He has called for her to do. Is it what she had planned? No. Ruth had planned to live the rest of her days with her husband but she has taken on life’s faceted journeys with grace. Her challenges have made her stronger. She has trusted the Lord with each new discovery and has accepted her new life.

I challenge you to embrace Ruth’s boldness and faith. These characteristics have made her stronger, confident, and selfless woman of God. Ask the Lord, “Ok Lord, what is that You need from me today? What can I do that will test my faith and please what You have set out for me?” Question what will make you a stronger Christian and walk fully in obedience to what He requests from you!